Frequently Asked Questions | Dachshund Puppies For Sale | Cheryl Hughes
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Frequently Asked Questions

Straight answers on pricing, health testing, delivery, AKC registration, and what to expect when bringing home a Dachshund from Cheryl.

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Section 01
Pricing & Payment
How much do Dachshund puppies cost?

Our AKC-registered Dachshund puppies are priced between $2,500 and $4,500, depending on size, coat type, color, and pattern. Rare colors such as English Cream, Piebald, and Double Dapple sit at the top of that range due to rarity and demand.

All puppies are sold with full AKC documentation, health testing records, vaccinations, and our 10-year health guarantee included in the purchase price — no hidden fees.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept bank transfer, Zelle, PayPal, and major credit and debit cards. A deposit is required to reserve a puppy, with the remaining balance due before or at the time of pickup or delivery. Contact Cheryl for current payment options.

Is a deposit required to reserve a puppy?

Yes. A non-refundable deposit is required to secure your chosen puppy. It is deducted from the total purchase price and removes the puppy from our available listings exclusively for your family. Once received, weekly photo and video updates begin immediately.

Why do Dachshund puppies vary so much in price between breeders?

Price variation reflects the level of investment the breeder makes before a puppy ever goes home. Breeders who perform comprehensive health testing, carry AKC certification, raise puppies in a family environment, and provide full documentation will charge more — and that difference represents genuine value. Breeders with very low prices frequently cut corners on testing, socialization, and veterinary care. Those savings come at a cost that families often discover after purchase.

Section 02
About the Breed
What is the difference between a Standard and Miniature Dachshund?

The AKC defines a Miniature Dachshund as 11 lbs or under at full maturity, typically standing 5–6 inches tall. Standard Dachshunds weigh between 16 and 32 lbs. Both sizes share the same loyal, courageous, and affectionate temperament the breed is known for. Miniatures are well-suited to apartments and smaller spaces; Standards thrive with active families who enjoy regular outdoor exercise.

What coat types do you breed?

We breed Dachshunds in all three AKC-recognized coat varieties:

  • Smooth coat — Short, sleek, and low-maintenance. The most recognized Dachshund look.
  • Long-haired coat — Silky, flowing coat with a slightly calmer, more affectionate temperament.
  • Wire-haired coat — Rough, dense outer coat. Playful and spirited, the rarest of the three varieties.
What colors and patterns are available?

We produce a wide range of AKC-recognized colors and patterns including red, cream, black & tan, chocolate & tan, blue & tan, English Cream, single and double dapple, piebald, and brindle. Availability varies by litter. Reach out to Cheryl to enquire about a specific color or pattern.

Are Dachshunds good with children and other pets?

When properly socialized, yes. Our puppies are raised inside our home alongside children, adults, and other pets. This early exposure produces confident, adaptable dogs that integrate smoothly into family life. Supervised introductions with very young children and patient integration with existing pets is always recommended.

How long do Dachshunds typically live?

Dachshunds are one of the longest-lived dog breeds, with a typical lifespan of 12 to 16 years. Proper weight management, regular veterinary care, and responsible exercise — particularly avoiding excessive jumping — contribute significantly to a longer, healthier life.

Section 03
Health & Testing
Are your breeding dogs health tested?

Yes. All breeding dogs undergo comprehensive health screening before being included in our program:

  • OFA Cardiac Evaluation
  • OFA Patella Evaluation
  • CAER annual eye examination
  • IVDD genetic risk panel
  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) DNA testing

All documentation is available to buyers and included in your puppy’s take-home packet.

What does the 10-year health guarantee cover?

Our written health guarantee covers hereditary and congenital conditions detectable through genetic and health testing, including IVDD-related spinal conditions and other screened disorders. If a covered condition is diagnosed by a licensed veterinarian, we work directly with you to make it right. The full terms are provided in writing at the time of purchase. We do not walk away after pickup day.

What vaccinations will my puppy have received before going home?

Your puppy will leave with age-appropriate vaccinations fully documented on a vet-signed vaccination record. This typically includes the first round of the DHPP combination vaccine. Your veterinarian will advise on the follow-up booster schedule at your puppy’s first appointment, which we recommend scheduling within 72 hours of arrival.

What is IVDD and how do you screen for it?

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) is a spinal condition that affects Dachshunds at a higher rate than most breeds due to their body structure. It can range from mild back discomfort to significant neurological symptoms. We DNA test all breeding dogs for IVDD risk markers and select pairings that minimize the risk inherited by offspring. This is a non-negotiable part of our breeding standard.

Section 04
What’s Included with Every Puppy
What does my puppy come with?

Every puppy leaves our care with the following:

  • Full AKC registration papers and pedigree documentation
  • Up-to-date vaccination record, vet-signed
  • Licensed veterinary health certificate
  • Complete deworming treatment and documentation
  • Microchip with registration information
  • 10-year written health guarantee
  • Starter supply of the food your puppy has been eating
  • Comfort toy and scent blanket from mom and littermates
  • Detailed puppy care guide covering feeding, training, and the first weeks home
  • Lifetime breeder support from Cheryl
Will my puppy be microchipped before going home?

Yes. Every puppy is microchipped prior to leaving our care. You receive the chip number and registration details so you can transfer the record into your name. We recommend registering with a national database as soon as your puppy arrives home.

What food should I feed my puppy when they arrive?

We send your puppy home with a supply of the exact food they have been eating. We strongly recommend continuing with this food for at least two to three weeks to prevent digestive upset. If you plan to switch brands, transition gradually over 7–10 days by slowly increasing the ratio of new food to old.

Section 05
The Adoption Process
How do I reserve a puppy?

The process is straightforward. Browse our available puppies, submit an application, and have a personal conversation with Cheryl about which puppy suits your lifestyle. A deposit secures your reservation, and weekly updates begin from that point until your puppy’s go-home date at 8 weeks.

At what age do puppies go home?

Our puppies go home at 8 weeks of age, in line with AKC guidelines and veterinary best practices. This ensures adequate bonding time with the mother and littermates, which is essential for healthy behavioral and emotional development. Puppies placed before 8 weeks are at significantly higher risk of anxiety and socialization difficulties.

Can I visit the puppies before purchasing?

Yes. In-person visits are welcomed and encouraged for families who are local or able to travel. Seeing where your puppy was raised and meeting Cheryl in person gives you full confidence. All visits must be scheduled in advance — we ask that you do not arrive unannounced, to protect the wellbeing of the litters.

Is there a waiting list for specific puppies?

Yes. Due to high demand — particularly for specific coat types and rare color patterns — we frequently carry a waiting list. Families who reach out early, even before a litter is available, receive first notification when a suitable puppy is born. Being on the list ensures you are not competing with others once a litter arrives.

Section 06
Delivery & Pickup
Do you offer nationwide delivery?

Yes. We deliver to all 50 states through two options:

  • Ground transport — A professional pet transport service drives your puppy to you in a climate-controlled vehicle with regular rest and feeding stops.
  • Flight nanny delivery — A dedicated nanny flies with your puppy in-cabin — never in cargo — from our nearest airport to yours.

In-person pickup at our home is always available and incurs no delivery charge.

Is it safe to fly a puppy?

When handled correctly, yes. Our flight nanny service uses in-cabin travel exclusively — your puppy is never placed in cargo. The nanny holds and monitors your puppy throughout the flight. Because our puppies are well-socialized and accustomed to being handled, the experience is far calmer than many families anticipate.

How much does delivery cost?

Delivery fees vary based on your location and the method chosen. Please contact Cheryl with your city and state for an accurate quote. Delivery costs are separate from the puppy purchase price.

Section 07
After Bringing Your Puppy Home
How do I prepare my home for a new Dachshund puppy?

Before your puppy arrives we recommend setting up a crate as a safe, consistent space; puppy-proofing at floor level for cords and small objects; purchasing food and water bowls, collar, ID tag, and leash; scheduling a vet appointment within 72 hours of arrival; and having a quiet, warm area ready for them to settle in without overstimulation.

Are Dachshunds easy to train?

Dachshunds are intelligent but bred to think independently — which can read as stubbornness during training. They respond well to positive reinforcement, short and consistent sessions, and food motivation. House training typically takes a few weeks of patience and routine. Crate training is highly effective with this breed and helps enormously with the settling-in period.

How do I protect my Dachshund’s spine?

Spinal health is the most important long-term consideration for Dachshund owners. Use ramps or steps rather than allowing them to jump on and off furniture. Keep your dog at a healthy weight — excess weight places significant strain on the spine. Walk your Dachshund on a harness rather than a collar. Seek immediate veterinary attention at any sign of back pain, rear leg weakness, or postural changes. Our care guide covers this in detail.

What ongoing support do you offer after purchase?

Cheryl is available for the life of your dog — for questions on training, nutrition, health concerns, or general guidance. Many of the families we have worked with stay in touch for years. We consider every placement the beginning of a long-term relationship, not the end of a transaction.

Section 08
About Cheryl & Our Program
How long have you been breeding Dachshunds?

Cheryl has been dedicated to breeding Dachshunds for over 10 years. What began as a personal love for the breed evolved into a full-time commitment to ethical, health-focused breeding. Over that time she has placed hundreds of puppies with families across the United States.

What does AKC Bred with H.E.A.R.T. mean?

AKC Bred with H.E.A.R.T. is a designation awarded by the American Kennel Club to breeders who commit to health testing, AKC rules compliance, continuing canine health education, and adherence to the AKC Care and Conditions Policy. It is one of the most credible certifications available in the breeding community, and it means our program meets AKC’s highest standard for responsible breeding practice.

Can I visit your facility before purchasing?

Yes. In-person visits are always welcome and encouraged. Our puppies are raised in our family home, and we are proud to show exactly where and how they grow up. All visits require advance scheduling — please reach out through our contact page to arrange a time.

How do I get in touch?

The best way to reach Cheryl is through our Contact page. She personally responds to all enquiries and is happy to answer questions before you make any commitment. You can also browse Available Puppies to see current litters.

Still have questions

We’re happy to help directly

Cheryl personally reads and responds to every message. Reach out and she’ll get back to you promptly.